At Structural Buildings, every project is an opportunity to showcase our craftsmanship and creativity. One recent project that stands out is the Bakke Cabin, a post-frame cabin that brought both challenges and valuable lessons. Alexa Ranfranz, one of our talented drafters, led this project, marking her first turn-key design and offering insight into how to bring a client’s vision to life.
When Alexa received the Bakke Cabin layout, she was excited to tackle such a large project. As her first turn-key endeavor, it was a significant milestone in her career. “I was excited to get to work on such a large project,” Alexa shared. The client’s layout was both intriguing and flexible, providing a solid foundation while allowing Alexa room to express her creativity.
Collaboration Played a Crucial Role in this Project.
Alexa worked closely with Mark, the project’s salesman, to ensure the design met the client’s needs. “I wanted to make sure that the design was going to fit the needs of the client,” Alexa emphasized. Through open communication, she ensured the design stayed on track and aligned with the client’s vision.
The project began with a floor plan proposed by the client, who requested a spacious, vaulted area, an open layout for the great room, and plenty of natural light. Alexa refined these ideas, ensuring the design not only matched but also enhanced the client’s vision. This required balancing the original layout with necessary adjustments, a task Alexa approached with precision and care.
Like any Design, the Bakke Cabin Came with its Challenges.
One major hurdle was expanding the utility room, which required taking space from the entry hall. Another challenge was determining the optimal layout for the floor trusses, a key component in post-frame construction. By collaborating with both Mark and Mitch, the head of the drafting department, Alexa found effective solutions and ensured the design’s structural integrity.
The Bakke Cabin project became a valuable learning experience for Alexa. “As this was my first turn-key project, I learned a ton about a variety of things,” she noted. Alexa gained deeper insights into the use of floor trusses and thickened interior bearings—key elements in post-frame buildings. These lessons will undoubtedly enhance her expertise in future projects.
Looking Back
Alexa identified one change she’d make: adjusting the windows in the great room to allow more natural light. This reflection highlights her commitment to refining her work and delivering designs that not only meet but exceed expectations.
Alexa Ranfranz’s experience with the Bakke Cabin exemplifies the dedication, problem-solving, and teamwork that define Structural Buildings. Her journey highlights the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and a willingness to learn. By combining these qualities, Alexa successfully brought the client’s vision to life, creating a beautiful, functional post-frame cabin.
At Structural Buildings, we believe every project is a chance to create something extraordinary. If you’re looking to turn your dream cabin into reality, our team is ready to make it happen!
